Are the grounds of Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion actually stretching or is it your imagination?
This definitely isn’t your imagination. On August 29, Disney announced that Disneyland Park is expanding the Haunted Mansion grounds, along with adding a brand new retail shop inspired by the one and only Madame Leota.
All of this is slated to occur next year, with construction beginning sometime in January 2024.
Here’s what to expect…
New expanded outdoor queue with themed-gardens
These additions will build on the story and lore of the Haunted Mansion, including by adding an expanded outdoor queue “to immerse guests in enhanced theming.”
Apparently, local legend suggests the Haunted Mansion manor was first built by a prosperous sea captain. As described by Disney, “The expanded queue will tie into these stories and more, including new gardens inspired by Master Gracey, Madame Leota, and the one-eyed cat.”
Hint: the objects found in Madame Leota’s garden will be inspired by her incantation!
These gardens will feature unique elements ranging from a water fountain and gazebo to a themed statuary and landscaping.
Guests will even able to see a new greenhouse where the groundskeepers for the Haunted Mansion grow their plants.
Don’t worry, the pet cemetery and horse-drawn funeral hearse will remain on the grounds.
Madame Leota retail shop
Adjacent to the attraction’s exit, guests will be able to browse the all-new shop themed after Madame Leota.
“This carriage house of the mansion, belonging to Leota, will be a standalone shop,” Disney teased.
That’s all we know so far.
An enhanced plaza
The plaza adjacent to Tiana’s Palace (the new restaurant opening September 7) will also see some enhancements.
An elegant park-like setting is coming and is described as a “place to relax and enjoy the ambiance and live entertainment under the shade of new and historic trees.”
More accessibility
If that isn’t enough, Disneyland is also going to take time during the expansion “to help improve the accessibility of these areas which includes a new elevator exit from the Haunted Mansion for guests with disabilities.”
Disney says they will share more details early next year. Which addition are you most excited for?
The following products and services give us a commission on sales.
Get our free Quick Start Guide
Have our guide delivered right to your inbox with our 6-step Disney World planning process to make it less overwhelming. Snag our free guide ➡️
Take our course
Check out our course that will help you learn all about Walt Disney World planning with dozens of videos and downloadables for each step along the way. Get access now ➡️
Our recommend travel agency
We partner with Small World Vacations, Diamond Level Authorized Disney Vacations Planners in business since 1996. Get a quote now ➡️
Want to stay deluxe on a moderate budget?
It’s 1 of our top fave ways to save! By renting DVC points, you can stay in deluxe accommodations for a fraction of the price. Check availability ➡️
Private car service
Quicksilver Tours will transport you in style. They assist with luggage at the airport, provide car seats, and include a free grocery stop. Book your car ➡️
Need a stroller, wheelchair, or scooter?
Buena Vista Scooters is a company with a great reputation who offers in-person resort drop off and pick up of strollers, scooters, and wheelchairs. Book your rental ➡️
Amazon recommendations
Check out our Amazon shop with trip essentials we love. Start shopping ➡️
WDW Prep merch
Get WDW Prep merch to show off your Disney knowledge (especially fun for spotting others during your trip!). Check out the WDW Prep merch shop ➡️
- Be Our Guest review: is it worth it? - September 21, 2023
- Cinderella’s Royal Table lunch & dinner review: is it worth it? - September 21, 2023
- Best Vegetarian Options at Epcot Food and Wine 2023 - September 18, 2023